The Remembering David Foster Wallace panel was fantastic. The theatre could fit 170 people, and it looked pretty full to me. I was super nervous beforehand, so after the technical difficulties (my new laptop that I use all the time at work didn't want to output to the Bangarra Theatre AV system) and a subsequent open office to powerpoint conversion (which messed up the formatting), it ran pretty smoothly. We were also filmed by ABC TV. If all goes well we'll have some footage of the panel in the not-too-distant future.

Massive thanks and shout-out to fellow panel members Kate Crawford, Julian Murphet, and Caroline Hamilton (do you have something I can link to, Caroline?). They all spoke wonderfully. I can't wait to catch up with you all soon.

Big thanks and hello to everyone who was there who had visited the fantods. I was amazed at the number of hands that shot up after Kate asked how many of you were familiar with the site - thank you.

Special thanks to:

Lena, for lying on the ground next to a beverage spill (my fault, not hers) that resulted in a spectacular photo.

Hugh, who took us on an unexpectedly scenic route to our next destination and shared fine cider and conversation with me on arrival.

Gabrielle, who shares my appreciation for a specific moment in IJ and then ensured I didn't leave my IJ 1st edition behind at the end of the night (phew!).

Kevin, who drove up from Canberra to attend (check out his thesis if you haven't already, I forgot to name drop it during my bit even when it was in my notes in front of me) but had to drive back straight after :(

And finally, Bo. Sometimes this world feels way too small. In a good way.

Greets to everyone who helped celebrate afterwards (Sorry I can't remember all the names, it was too hard). I don't plan on that being a one off. Next time I'm in Sydney I expect another get together, although let's pick somewhere that doesn't kick us out at 11:30pm on a Saturday night!

On a final note, I ran up to the Number One Wine Bar by myself with a copy of IJ in hand when it was clear all were still settled at the venue near the SWF. I got there at 9:20pm and did a loop of the place and waited at the front door. If I managed to miss anyone before I left please get in touch, I'll make it up to you next time I'm in Sydney.